OECD Skills Strategy for Kazakhstan: Assessment and Recommendations
Foreword
The development of relevant skills and their effective utilization is critical for Kazakhstan's ability to prosper in an increasingly interconnected and rapidly evolving world. In recent years, Kazakhstan has made significant strides in fortifying its skills system and enhancing its economic and social performance. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, however, has posed unique challenges, leading to unprecedented global economic downturns and significant human suffering.
Kazakhstan swiftly implemented stringent measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate its economic fallout, adopting rigorous social distancing protocols and deploying a robust anti-crisis package equivalent to 9% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Despite these actions, the pandemic has profoundly impacted the nation, exacerbating vulnerabilities and affecting growth prospects.
Evidence-based skills policies are pivotal in mitigating the adverse effects of the COVID-19 crisis and facilitating recovery. The pandemic has disproportionately affected vulnerable groups, with low-skilled and informal workers being hit hardest. Educational disruptions have exacerbated inequalities, particularly impacting students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Objective: The overarching goal is to strengthen Kazakhstan's skills system to ensure resilience and adaptability in the face of transformative economic and social changes. This includes leveraging skills for higher economic growth and improved well-being while preparing for future economic and social challenges.
Key Priorities
- Activation of Skills Among Vulnerable Populations: Enhancing opportunities for skill reactivation among low-skilled adults to reduce poverty and inequality.
- Participation in Adult Learning: Promoting inclusive participation in diverse forms of adult learning to broaden access and improve skill acquisition.
- Effective Skills Information System: Establishing a robust system to track skills demand, supply, and utilization for informed decision-making.
- Governance Strengthening: Improving governance frameworks to align skills development with national priorities and international best practices.
Collaborative Development
The OECD collaborated closely with the Government of Kazakhstan, engaging over 150 stakeholders across various sectors. Detailed analyses and extensive consultations led to tailored recommendations designed to address specific skills challenges and needs.
Support and Future Directions
The OECD is committed to supporting Kazakhstan's efforts in implementing effective skills policies and transitioning towards a knowledge-based economy and society. This support is particularly crucial in light of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of adaptive and resilient skills systems.
